Following increase in drownings.
In response to an increasing number of preventable drownings on watercraft in New Zealand, Coastguard and Water Safety New Zealand are pleading with Kiwis to wear lifejackets while on the water this summer.
Drowning is the leading cause of recreational death in Aotearoa and according to recent data from Water Safety New Zealand, craft-related incidents account for 31% of those deaths. In 2022, there were 29 drowning fatalities from watercraft and 21 of the people who died weren’t wearing a lifejacket. The number of drownings in 2022 is a staggering 66% higher than compared with the 10-year average.
Coastguard CEO Callum Gillespie says too many lives are being lost unnecessarily because people aren’t wearing lifejackets. “A lifejacket has never ruined a day on the water, but not wearing one has destroyed many lives. Drownings are a devastating event for whānau, family and friends and for our incredible volunteers who are on the frontline. These tragic deaths leave a long-lasting impact on our communities.
“We have a simple message for all watercraft users, whether you’re on a boat, yacht, kayak, jet ski, SUP – whatever your waka – ‘Just Wear It’. It’s called a lifejacket for a reason and wearing one is the easiest way to keep yourself and others safe while enjoying a fun day out on the water.”
According to Coastguard, in the event of unexpectedly entering the water, people may have to tread water for at least 40 minutes before help arrives. This could be hours in more remote locations. Without a lifejacket, this is incredibly difficult and drastically reduces your chance of survival. This was the case for a Nelson family of four whose boat was swamped by two massive waves. With their lifejackets on, they swam for over an hour to rocks after being unable to raise an alarm, and despite briefly losing sight of each other in the challenging swim. They were eventually rescued by Coastguard and treated for hypothermia, their properly fitted lifejackets playing a crucial role in their survival.
“We were very grateful to see the Coastguard volunteers. Very exhausted, very cold and very appreciative,” survivor Jackie said. While Water Safety data suggests most boaters (95%) and jet skiers (99%) agree that wearing a lifejacket should be mandatory everywhere in New Zealand, this currently isn’t the case.
Coastguard New Zealand CEO Callum Gillespie adds: “Overall, New Zealanders are showing a high degree of complacency when it comes to the water, but this ‘she’ll be right’ attitude is literally killing people. No one heads out expecting to get into trouble, but the fact we responded to 2,596 incidents last year shows the unexpected happens all too often.
If you need a new lifejacket or it’s time to upgrade your old one, Coastguard’s hitting the road across Aotearoa from December through to February with Old4New. Find out when the Old4New van will be in your town at old4new.coastguard.nz
